Your Questions, Answered: Finding the Right Support for Your Wellbeing

Starting therapy can feel like stepping into the unknown. You may be wondering what to expect, how it works, or whether it could make a difference for what you’re going through. People come to therapy for many different reasons. For some, it’s support through a specific challenge such as infertility, perimenopause, grief, or life transitions. For others, it’s about personal growth, self-understanding, and building on the strengths they already carry.

Whatever has brought you here, it’s natural to have questions. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common ones we hear from clients, to help give you a clearer sense of how we might work together and what the process can look like.

1. What kinds of things do people come to see you for?

People come for many different reasons. There’s no “right” or “wrong” reason to seek support. Some are feeling stuck, anxious, overwhelmed, or flat. Some are experiencing workplace issues such as stress or burnout. Others are navigating life changes like menopause, perimenopause, infertility, parenting shifts, career changes, or grief.

Some come to better understand themselves, explore personal strengths, and create a life that feels more aligned with their values.

2. What is strengths-based therapy?

Strengths-based therapy focuses on building what’s already working such as your abilities, resources, values, and past successes. It doesn’t ignore challenges; it combines acknowledgment of difficulties with practical strategies to use your strengths to move forward.

3. What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?

CBT helps you notice patterns between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, and explore whether those patterns are helping or holding you back. We explore whether these patterns help or hold you back, and develop strategies you can practice between sessions to create meaningful change.

4. Do I need to have a mental health diagnosis to see a psychologist?

No! Some clients have a GP referral under a Mental Health Care Plan; some clients have psychology covered under their private health insurance, others come privately for support or personal growth. Therapy can be about recovery, prevention, or development. Whatever suits your needs!

5. What happens in the first session?

The first session is a conversation where we begin to get to know your story. We talk about what’s been happening for you, what has brought you to therapy, and what you hope might feel different. Some moments may be serious, some lighter, and there is always room for humour where it fits! Together, we move at a pace that feels comfortable, noticing and responding to what arises along the way.

6. How do I know if you’re the right psychologist for me?

The right fit comes down to feeling heard, respected, understood, and where you feel like you will be able to share the thoughts and experiences you are having. You’re welcome to reach out and organise a quick 10-minute chat before booking, to see if it feels right. Therapy works best when you feel safe to be yourself.

7. I’m struggling with infertility - can I talk to you about that?

Absolutely. Infertility can be emotionally exhausting and isolating. It often brings grief and anxiety for the future. It is unsettling to have so many uncertainties looming over you. Together, we create space to process emotions, manage stress, and maintain your sense of self and wellbeing.

8. Can you help with menopause and perimenopause?

Yes. Hormonal changes can affect mood, cognition, and relationships. We discuss practical ways to manage these shifts and support your emotional wellbeing during this stage.

9. Do you give homework?

Sometimes! Some people like to call them action plans, and sometimes they can even be fun. Strategies are practical, realistic, and tailored to you - small, achievable steps rather than overwhelming lists. Change happens within and outside the therapy room and the goal behind homework is to play and practice with the strategies in real life!

10. Do you offer online sessions?

Online or phone sessions give you the freedom to engage from a space that feels comfortable for you. Whether at home, in a quiet corner, or somewhere you feel at ease, therapy can happen in a way that suits your life.

11. What if I’m not ready for therapy yet?

That’s okay. You might start with our free resources. Small steps, even reading and reflecting can be the start of meaningful change.

If reading through these questions has helped you feel a little clearer, and you’re considering taking the next step, you’re warmly welcome to get in touch. An initial appointment offers space to talk about what’s been happening for you, ask any questions you may have, and explore whether working together feels like a good fit.

Reaching out doesn’t commit you to ongoing therapy. It’s simply an opportunity to begin a conversation, at a pace that feels right for you.